Simone Gbagbo: From Bunker to Presidential Candidate in Ivory Coast

Sat Sep 13 2025 13:37:41 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Simone Gbagbo, the controversial former First Lady of Ivory Coast, has emerged from years of hiding and controversy to announce her candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections.

Simone Gbagbo, who held the title of First Lady from 2000 to 2011, is making a political comeback as she prepares to run for president in Ivory Coast's October elections. After enduring years of challenges, including a criminal conviction and a tumultuous marriage, Gbagbo aims to lead a 'modernised' and 'prosperous' Ivory Coast. As a symbol of female empowerment in a male-dominated political landscape, her candidacy reflects not only her resilience but also the transformative potential of women in Ivorian politics.

Simone Gbagbo, the former First Lady of Ivory Coast, has transitioned from hiding in a bunker to announcing her candidacy for the presidency. The remarkable comeback of the 76-year-old has garnered attention as she seeks to contest the upcoming elections in October.

Gbagbo's political journey has been fraught with challenges, having previously served alongside her ex-husband Laurent Gbagbo during his tumultuous presidency from 2000 to 2011. Known for her toughness, she was affectionately termed 'the iron lady' during her time in power.

The former first lady's period in politics was shadowed by controversy, criminal convictions, and personal upheaval, including a divorce from Laurent, yet she is now campaigning for a modernized and prosperous Ivory Coast, urging supporters to help 'build a new nation'.

Historically, Gbagbo and her husband were influential figures in protesting against the autocratic regime of former president Félix Houphouët-Boigny, ultimately founding the Ivorian Popular Front (FPI) together. Their activism led to multiple incarcerations, but they remained pivotal in the fight for democracy in Ivory Coast.

With women's representation in Ivorian politics lagging, only 30% of parliament members are women, Gbagbo's candidacy symbolizes a critical milestone. Her attempts to reconnect with her political roots, following her separation from FPI, showcase her desire to revitalize her influence through her newly founded party, the Movement of Capable Generations (MGC).

Despite her contentious past, Simone Gbagbo is viewed as a strong challenger to the current president Alassane Ouattara. Should she win, she would make history as Ivory Coast's first female president, further adding to her turbulent yet significant legacy in the nation's political landscape.